Deputy Manager / Baby Room Lead

Deputy Manager / Baby Room ManagerLocation:HoveSalary: Competitive, plus bonuses and benefits Start Date: ASAPYour new companyWe are seeking a confident, enthusiastic, and hands-on Deputy Manager who will also take the lead as our Baby Room Manager. This dual role is perfect for someone who thrives in a nurturing environment, enjoys leading from the front, and is passionate about delivering exceptional care for our youngest children.As Baby Room Manager, you will guide the team in creating a warm, safe, and stimulating space where babies can explore, develop, and form secure attachments. As Deputy Manager, you will work closely with the Nursery Manager to support the smooth running of the setting, stepping into the Manager role when required and helping to maintain high standards across the nursery.We are an independent, family-run nursery with a vibrant, supportive team. If you enjoy working collaboratively, bringing fresh ideas, and making a meaningful impact, this role offers a fantastic opportunity to grow and lead within a positive, close-knit environment.Your new role

• Assist the Nursery Manager in overseeing daily operations and staff management
• Support the delivery of educational programmes aligned with early childhood development principles
• Lead the baby room team, ensuring a nurturing, engaging, and developmentally appropriate environment
• Supervise staff and maintain consistently high standards of care, learning, and safeguarding
• Build strong, positive relationships with children, parents, and colleagues
• Lead by example in planning and delivering stimulating activities that promote learning and development
• Ensure full compliance with health & safety regulations, safeguarding procedures, and nursery policies
• Organise staff rotas, monitor attendance, and support ongoing professional development
• Contribute to a welcoming, inclusive environment that encourages curiosity, confidence, and growth

What you'll need to succeed

• Proven management or supervisory experience within a nursery or childcare setting
• Strong leadership qualities with the ability to motivate, guide, and support a team
• Experience working with children, ideally within early years education
• Solid understanding of nursery practice, child development, and relevant legislation
• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and verbal
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, team-focused environment
• Childcare qualification such as NVQ Level 3 or higher is essential

This role offers the chance to make a meaningful difference in young lives while developing your leadership career within a supportive, forward-thinking team.What you'll get in returnYou'll be part of a warm, family-run nursery led by an experienced team that values positivity, teamwork, and professional growth.Benefits Include:

• Flexible working options
• 28 days' paid annual leave (including bank holidays, pro-rata for part-time)
• One week off at Christmas
• Your birthday off
• Regular team days and social events
• £250 welcome bonus (paid after successful 6-month probation)
• Performance bonus
• Discounted childcare
• Paid overtime
• Company pension scheme
• CPD fund to support your learning and development
• Refer-a-friend scheme

What you need to do nowIf you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.If this job isn't quite right for you but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career.

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